An echocardiogram, also known as a cardiac ultrasound, allows for detailed evaluation of the heart. An echocardiogram will evaluate the heart chamber sizes, heart strength during contraction, blood flow, and overall structural heart health. It also screens for congenital heart defects, structural valvular abnormalities, and valve leaks. Echocardiograms are often used to as a diagnostic tool for conditions such as heart murmurs or heart disease. 

 

Cardiac ultrasounds are a non-painful procedure and usually do not require sedation. 

In most patients, a small section of hair will need to be clipped over the area being evaluated for image quality purposes.

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A cardiac workup may include an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure if indicated for complete evaluation.